How to use carrot juice for hair growth?

Carrot juice is a popular natural remedy often touted for its benefits for hair health. Some claim that drinking carrot juice or applying it directly to the scalp can help stimulate hair growth and thickness. Here’s a detailed look at the evidence behind using carrot juice for hair growth.

What are the benefits of carrots for hair?

Carrots contain a number of nutrients that may benefit hair health, including:

• Vitamin A: Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. This vitamin stimulates the production of sebum, which helps keep hair moisturized.
• Vitamin C: This antioxidant helps promote collagen production, which is important for hair growth and strength.
• Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that helps repair damage to hair follicles.
• Biotin: Also known as vitamin B7, biotin helps strengthen hair strands and prevent brittle hair.
• Potassium: This mineral hydrates and nourishes hair, combating dryness and breakage.

These nutrients make carrots a superfood for strong, healthy hair. Carrot juice condenses these nutrients into an easy-to-consume liquid form.

Evidence that carrot juice promotes hair growth

There is some scientific evidence suggesting that carrot juice may boost hair growth:

• A 2018 study found that topical application of carrot juice enhanced hair growth in albino rats. The carrot juice was applied every other day for 4 weeks.¹
• Another study gave carrot juice to a group of women with alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition causing hair loss. After 16 weeks, over half of the women experienced significant hair regrowth.²
• The antioxidant beta-carotene found in carrots may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in hair follicles, stimulating growth.³

While research is limited, these studies suggest carrot juice could promote faster hair growth and help combat hair loss when applied topically or consumed orally.

How to use carrot juice for hair

There are two main ways to use carrot juice for hair growth and health:

Drink it

Drinking carrot juice provides your hair with all the nutrients whole carrots have to offer in a more concentrated, bioavailable form. To use carrot juice for hair growth or thickness:

• Drink 1/2 to 1 cup of fresh carrot juice per day.
• For maximum benefits, drink it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
• Continue drinking daily for at least 2-3 months to see improved hair growth.

Apply it to your scalp

Applying carrot juice directly to your scalp allows the nutrients to be absorbed right where they are needed most. To use carrot juice topically:

• Blend a few carrots into juice, or use a freshly made carrot juice.
• Apply the juice directly to your scalp and massage it in gently.
• Leave on for 30-60 minutes before washing out.
• Repeat 2-3 times per week for best results.

Other ways to use carrots for hair

If drinking or applying straight carrot juice doesn’t appeal to you, there are other ways to benefit from carrots:

• Eat them whole – Get all the nutritional benefits of carrots by eating them raw, cooked, or roasted daily.
• Take a supplement – Carrot root powder or beta-carotene capsules provide concentrated nutrition.
• Add to a smoothie – Blend carrots into your morning smoothie for extra nutrients.
• Make a hair mask – Mix mashed carrots with coconut or olive oil and apply to hair before washing.

Who can benefit from carrot juice for hair?

Carrot juice may help improve hair growth and thickness for:

• Those with slow hair growth or thinning hair.
• People experiencing excessive hair loss or bald patches.
• Anyone seeking faster hair growth, including those growing out permed or color-treated hair.
• Those with dry, damaged hair that breaks easily.
• People with dandruff or scalp inflammation issues.

The nutrients in carrots promote scalp health and strengthen strands from root to tip. This can benefit many people seeking healthier, fuller hair.

How much and how often should you use it?

Here are some general guidelines on using carrot juice for optimal hair benefits:

Method	Amount	Frequency
Drinking	1/2 to 1 cup	Daily, or 5 times per week
Applying to Scalp	Enough to fully coat scalp	2-3 times per week

When drinking carrot juice, aim for daily consumption if possible. For scalp application, every other day is ideal for allowing the nutrients to fully absorb while avoiding over-application.

How long until you see results?

Consistent use of carrot juice can promote noticeable improvements in hair growth, thickness, and texture within 2-3 months. However, results depend on the individual and may vary.

Some studies have found significant hair growth after applying carrot juice to the scalp for just 1-2 months. Drinking carrot juice daily may take slightly longer to produce visible effects, but results will likely occur within 12 weeks.

Be patient when using carrot juice for hair health. Stick with it for at least 2-3 months before evaluating its effectiveness.

Risks and considerations

Carrot juice is generally very safe, but there are a few precautions to keep in mind:

• Drinking large amounts may temporarily turn skin yellow/orange due to excess beta-carotene. This is harmless.
• Carrots contain vitamin K, which can interfere with blood thinners like Coumadin (warfarin). Consult your doctor before using if on blood thinners.
• Topical application may cause irritation in those with sensitive skin. Do a patch test first.
• Carrot juice loses some nutrients during processing. Consume shortly after juicing for maximum benefits.
• Juicing removes beneficial fiber, so drink vegetable juice alongside whole fruits/veggies.

Speak with your healthcare provider before adding large amounts of carrot juice to your diet or applying it topically, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

The bottom line

Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants known to promote hair health, carrot juice may be beneficial for faster hair growth and preventing loss. Research shows promise for using carrot juice both topically and orally.

Drink 1/2 to 1 cup daily and/or apply directly to the scalp several times per week. Be patient, as noticeable improvements may take 2-3 months. Carrot juice is most effective as part of an overall healthy hair regimen.

Simple, affordable, and easy to use, carrot juice is worth trying if you’re looking to boost hair growth and thickness naturally.